USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), the latest Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, named after the nation's 41st president, welcomed civilian and local national personnel at Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Bahrain April 13.

While aboard the ship, NAVSUP FLC Bahrain personnel received a briefing on the ship's history and combat capabilities. The purpose of the visit was to allow civilian and local national employees the opportunity to view the daily operations of logistics support staff and the significant role of NAVSUP supply officers in the U.S. Navy.

NAVSUP FLC Bahrain provided logistics support to more than 6,000 Sailors who call the ship home while deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. During the visit, logistics support teams delivered 103 pallets of cargo and hazardous material, and coordinated the pickup of hazardous waste.

While viewing the working operations of logistics specialists, NAVSUP FLC Bahrain employees toured nine decks on the ship. Visitors also observed the George H.W. Bush museum, the aircrafts on the flight deck, and the bridge.

"I was able to see the bridge of the ship and run on the upper deck. I learned about the Sailors' real lives and the hardship of all service members. I am very thankful for the opportunity to see their world," said Judy Castillo, administrative specialist, NAVSUP FLC Bahrain.

Touring the aircraft carrier was a thrilling experience providing a chance for NAVSUP FLC Bahrain personnel to take part in the dedicated service of providing logistics support for customers.

"After my tour of USS George H.W. Bush, my respect towards Sailors has increased tremendously. It was my honor, pleasure, and treat to be aboard. I am most humbled that NAVSUP gave me one of the best experiences of my life," said Priya Rathnakara, purchasing agent, NAVSUP FLC Bahrain.

The visit highlights NAVSUP FLC Bahrain's effort to recognize civilians and the diverse multi-national team of local nationals who work hand-in-hand with military to ensure ships are provided the support and resources needed to meet their challenging tasks while in theater.

"The tour was a great chance to see how NAVSUP FLC Bahrain supports this floating, near self-sustaining city and gave me a deeper appreciation for each man and woman serving in our military," said Jill Mitchell, senior management analyst, NAVSUP FLC Bahrain.

NAVSUP FLC Bahrain has more than 180 military and civilian personnel providing logistics support in the region. The command is one of eight FLC's worldwide in the NAVSUP GLS enterprise. NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global navy. The organization is made up of more than 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

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